Cataract surgery in Seoul: clear sight, tailored lens
A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens. Surgery replaces it with a clear artificial lens chosen for your eyes and lifestyle, including options that reduce dependence on reading glasses.
How cataract surgery works
The cloudy lens is broken up and gently removed through a small incision, then a foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is placed in the same capsule. A femtosecond laser can assist with precise incisions and lens fragmentation.
Choosing the right IOL is the most important decision. Monofocal lenses give clear vision at one distance, toric lenses correct astigmatism, and multifocal or extended-depth-of-focus lenses aim to reduce the need for glasses at near and intermediate distances.
Your surgeon measures your eye precisely and talks through which lens fits how you live, read, drive and work.
Who cataract surgery suits
Your 50+ test examination decides. These are the general patterns surgeons look for.
Often a good fit
- Blurred or dim vision from a cataract
- Glare and halos around lights at night
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription
- Wanting to reduce dependence on reading glasses
- Presbyopia combined with early lens changes
May point to another option
- Active eye infection or inflammation
- Uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure (treat first)
- Some retinal conditions need extra assessment
- Unrealistic expectation of perfect vision at all distances
- Advanced macular disease limiting benefit
Surgery day
- Final measurements Lens power and type confirmed.
- Preparation Dilating and numbing drops, light sedation if needed.
- Lens removal The cloudy lens is fragmented and removed.
- IOL placement The new lens unfolds inside the capsule.
- Home Short rest, shield and drops. Someone should accompany you.
Recovery after cataract surgery
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Check-up; vision often already brighter and clearer. |
| Week 1 | Use drops as prescribed; avoid rubbing and heavy lifting. |
| Weeks 2–4 | Vision stabilizes; second eye may be scheduled. |
| Month 1 | New glasses prescription if needed. |
| Long term | Some patients later need a quick laser to clear capsule haze. |
Typical experience only. Your surgeon gives personal instructions after surgery.
Other procedures
SMILE Pro
The newest generation of SMILE on the VisuMax 800.
Learn about SMILE Pro → Flapless · laserSMILE LASIK
Small-incision correction with no corneal flap.
Learn about SMILE LASIK → Flap · laserLASIK
Proven laser correction with very fast recovery.
Learn about LASIK → Surface · laserLASEK
Surface treatment that preserves corneal tissue.
Learn about LASEK →Common questions
Is cataract surgery painful?
Numbing drops and light sedation keep it comfortable. Most patients feel only light pressure.
Will I still need glasses?
With a monofocal lens you may need reading glasses. Multifocal or EDOF lenses can reduce that need; your surgeon explains the trade-offs.
Can both eyes be done at once?
Usually eyes are treated on separate days, often a few days to a week apart.
Can cataracts come back?
The lens cannot cloud again, but the capsule behind it can become hazy. A quick laser treatment clears it.
Find out which procedure fits your eyes
Send your prescription and travel dates. A coordinator replies in English and books your 50+ test examination with a board-certified surgeon.
